RCMP networks targeted by cyberattack

The RCMP has launched a criminal investigation as it manages a cybersecurity attack targeting its networks.

In an email sent to staff Friday, RCMP chief security officer Paul L. Brown said the force is managing a «cyber event» and urged employees to stay vigilant.

«The situation is evolving quickly but at this time, there is no impact on RCMP operations and no known threat to the safety and security of Canadians,» a spokesperson for the RCMP said in a statement issued to CBC News.

«While a breach of this magnitude is alarming, the quick work and mitigation strategies put in place demonstrate the significant steps the RCMP has taken to detect and prevent these types of threats.»

The RCMP says it is working to determine the extent of the security breach. It added that there are no known impacts on foreign police and intelligence services.

The Office of the Privacy Commissioner (OPC) says it is aware of the cyberattack.

A spokesperson for the OPC said the office contacted the RCMP for more information and to «determine next steps.» The spokesperson would not provide further details.